The UK’s largest cruise port and where many will begin their cruise holiday, Southampton has no shortage of maritime and historical attractions. Discover local landmarks on a walking tour including 30 ancient monuments, learn about the tragic story of the Titanic and escape to the great outdoors at the New Forest National Park. With numerous options for seafood dining and even a free art gallery, Southampton is an undoubtedly great destination for a pre or post-cruise stay.
Things to do in Southampton:
SeaCity Museum
Dedicated to the tragedy of the Titanic, SeaCity Museum excellently portrays the aftermath through interactive exhibits. Featuring a 1:25 scale model of the ship, visitors learn about life onboard as well as the disaster that deeply affected Southampton in 1912.
Solent Sky Museum
Home to over 20 aircraft that were integral to the war effort, Solent Sky Museum is dedicated to the history of the RAF. Southampton itself played a large role in producing Supermarine Spitfires, which you’ll learn all about here.
The New Forest
If you’re looking to escape the busy port city, the New Forest National Park is just a short distance away with native New Forest ponies and lush heathland. Visitors can also catch events, activities and workshops throughout the year.
Tudor House and Garden
As Southampton’s most important historic building, this restored home holds over 800 years of history after having numerous owners. Now a museum, it showcases many artefacts once belonging to past residents of Southampton, as well as a Tudor House Café.
Southampton City Art Gallery
Since opening in 1939, this free art gallery has showcased exhibitions of sculptures, photography and traditional paintings. Thanks to an ever-changing programme of activities, you’ll find something here that the whole family will enjoy.
Le Havre (Paris)
DAY 2
This charming port town in Normandy is the gateway to France's chic capital, but is also a destination in its own right. Stick around the coast to explore the Musée des Beaux Arts and the D-Day beaches, or go on an optional shore excursion to Mont St Michel, the medieval town of Rouen, or into Paris.
Things to do in Le Havre (Paris):
St. Joseph’s Church
One of the most beautiful landmarks in Le Havre, St. Joseph’s Church was built 50 years ago and has a unique post-war design, with a 107m high ceiling, and a combination of concrete and stained glass. Situated in the centre of the city, this marvel of architecture is worth a visit when in Le Havre for a stop over.
Hanging Gardens
The 19th-century Hanging Gardens provide an outstanding view of the sea, the Seine estuary, and the rebuilt city. They are housed in an ancient fort. From the top of these gardens, the World Heritage Site of Le Havre comes into view.
Art Museum
If you love history, or the grandeur of French architecture, the Maison de l’Armateur is a must see. Situated within a stately 18th century mansion, it features beautiful and historic artwork, furnishings dating back to the era of Louis XVI and an impressive octagonal atrium.
Bruges (Zeebrugge)
DAY 3
Pocket-sized, picturesque and perfect for a romantic getaway, Bruges is easily accessible, especially for cruises departing from the UK. With Gothic and neo-Gothic architecture throughout the quaint streets and canals, there's plenty of history and culture to discover. Visit the Markt and Belfort's stunning views over the city, the Groeninge Museum for early Flemish art, and enjoy a boat ride around the canals for a scenic city tour.
Things to do in Bruges (Zeebrugge):
The Belfry of Bruges
In the heart of Bruges, Belgium, there lies a mediaeval bell tower known as The Belfry. The belfry, one of the city's most recognisable landmarks, once held the municipal records and a treasury., along with acting as an observation station for spotting fires and other hazards. You can now climb the Belfry and take in incredible views of surrounding Bruges.
2be Beer Wall
Housing over 780 beers, a shop and a bar, the 2be Beer Wall is a hugely popular attraction in Bruges. Boasting a modern feel and a unique selection of Belgian beers, alongside merchandise- such as tankards.
Minnewater
If you’re looking for a tranquil activity whilst in Bruges, head to the Minnewater lake. A picturesque lake that’s aligned with benches, and beautiful buildings dotted along it, it’s the perfect place to sit and take in the breathtaking surroundings; and an escape from the hustle and bustle of the centre.
Amsterdam
DAY 4-5
One of the most popular cruise destinations in Europe, Amsterdam is perfect for a picturesque city getaway. Whether you're exploring the city on foot, by bike or by a canal boat, a tour is a great way to discover hidden gems as well as iconic landmarks such as the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. Depending on the time of year, you may also experience the vibrant Keukenhof Gardens which are home to more than 7 million tulips.
Things to do in Amsterdam:
Rijksmuseum
Situated in the centre of Amsterdam, the Rijksmuseum, also known as the museum of Netherlands is home to an array of art, from Rembrandt to Van Gogh. Showcasing over 800 years of history, this beautiful and historic building is an iconic landmark that’s popular with both tourists and locals.
Anne Frank House
Located next to Westerkerk, the Anne Frank House is a museum that honours the Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. Situated on the Prinsengracht Canal, this fascinating but sorrowful landmark makes for a harrowing visit.
Vondelpark
This picturesque park spans an incredible 120 acres. Full of picturesque flora and fauna, it features a cafe, bandstand and more. A tranquil way to spend your day in Amsterdam, many people choose to ride bikes around it.
Hamburg
DAY 6
A popular port of call on any European cruise, Hamburg is a thriving port city with plenty to offer. Once onshore, you'll see countless maritime attractions and seafood restaurants with fresh catches of the day. We recommend a city tour to admire the canals and lakes, as well as the World Heritage Site, Speicherstadt. To dive in on Hamburg's seafaring history, head to the International Maritime Museum, home to numerous artefacts and exhibitions.
Things to do in Hamburg:
Hamburg Townhall
Dating to 1897, the Hamburg Townhall houses the seat of government in the city, including Germany’s 16 parliaments within the state. A historic building with impressive architecture, it’s in the heart of the city and frequently listed as the top attraction to visit whilst stopping over in this beautiful destination.
Tierpark Hagenbeck
If you love animals, you should visit Tierpark Hagenbeck during your time in Hamburg. A spacious zoo, it dates back to 1907. However, the process to build the zoo began back in 1863 when Carl Hagenbeck Sr. began to grow his collection of animals. Now home to elephants, penguins and more, it’s a wonderful attraction within the city.
Elbphilharmonie
When you sail into Hamburg, you’ll be greeted by the Elbphilharmonie Hamburg; a concert hall which is one of the largest in the world. Home to an array of productions, this uniquely-designed building first opened its doors in the early 20th century.
Southampton
DAY 8
The UK’s largest cruise port and where many will begin their cruise holiday, Southampton has no shortage of maritime and historical attractions. Discover local landmarks on a walking tour including 30 ancient monuments, learn about the tragic story of the Titanic and escape to the great outdoors at the New Forest National Park. With numerous options for seafood dining and even a free art gallery, Southampton is an undoubtedly great destination for a pre or post-cruise stay.
Things to do in Southampton:
SeaCity Museum
Dedicated to the tragedy of the Titanic, SeaCity Museum excellently portrays the aftermath through interactive exhibits. Featuring a 1:25 scale model of the ship, visitors learn about life onboard as well as the disaster that deeply affected Southampton in 1912.
Solent Sky Museum
Home to over 20 aircraft that were integral to the war effort, Solent Sky Museum is dedicated to the history of the RAF. Southampton itself played a large role in producing Supermarine Spitfires, which you’ll learn all about here.
The New Forest
If you’re looking to escape the busy port city, the New Forest National Park is just a short distance away with native New Forest ponies and lush heathland. Visitors can also catch events, activities and workshops throughout the year.
Tudor House and Garden
As Southampton’s most important historic building, this restored home holds over 800 years of history after having numerous owners. Now a museum, it showcases many artefacts once belonging to past residents of Southampton, as well as a Tudor House Café.
Southampton City Art Gallery
Since opening in 1939, this free art gallery has showcased exhibitions of sculptures, photography and traditional paintings. Thanks to an ever-changing programme of activities, you’ll find something here that the whole family will enjoy.
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What's included
Included
Tips
Tips are included on all MSC cruises. You don't need to worry about tipping unless you want to.
Accommodation
Your cabin is included in the price of the cruise.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks from the buffet and main dining restaurants are all included. Meals from the specialty dining restaurants are additional.
No surprises. All port fees and taxes are included in the price.
Extras
Drinks
Some teas, coffees and soft drinks will be included but alcoholic drinks are extra. You can buy drinks individually at the bar or buy a drinks package. See below for the drinks packages available.
Premium Extra drinks package
Easy Plus Package
Easy Package
The Alcohol Free Package
Minors Package
Premium Extra drinks package
Premium Extra drinks package
The Premium Extra Package is a great option for those who love premium branded drinks, and perhaps a glass of champers, with a great range of drinks included.
How to book
If staying in Yacht Club, this package is included. Otherwise, for the best value for money, pre-purchase your drinks package as part of your booking with us. If you have already booked your MSC Cruise with us, simply log into your MSC booking to add on the drinks package you require. You can do this via their online portal or their 'MSC For Me' app. You can also purchase once onboard but is usually more expensive.
Included
Premium Cocktails
Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Non-Alcoholic Cocktails
Fresh fruit and protein cocktails
Premium Spirits
Champagne by glass
Selected glasses of fine wine
Premium Beer
Bottled Water
Specialty or Premium Coffee and Teas
25% discount on purchased of bottled wine and champagne
Gratuities & services charges
Excluded
Mini Bar Items
Drinks Sold In The Onboard Shops
Room service orders
Terms and Conditions
The Premium Extra Package can be enjoyed in our bars, buffet, main restaurant and specialty restaurants as well as on private islands, but does not cover our signature venues.
Drink packages are non-transferable and cannot be shared with other guests, being valid for one drink per order. Violation of these terms may result in cancellation of a guest's package without entitlement to a refund or credit of any kind.
Packages are sold on a per cruise basis and not per day or any other basis. The price applies to all days of the cruise except the day of disembarkation. Once activated on board, packages cannot be cancelled or refunded. Packages must be booked by all guests occupying the same cabin, travelling together and wishing to dine at the same table. This includes minors, for whom the Minors Package must be booked.
The package is not compulsory for children under 3 years of age (i.e. who have not yet reached their third birthday). The following items are not included in the package: tobacco, souvenir glasses, ice cream menu, retail items, minibar and room service. The following exclusions apply: tobacco, souvenir glasses, ice cream menu, retail items, minibar, room service, promotions and Signature Venues (Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury venues, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club) regardless of the price of the drinks. You must be of legal age to consume alcohol. Other terms and conditions may apply. Guests under the legal drinking age with respect to the ship's operating area are not permitted to purchase or consume alcohol. Drinks and liquor may be substituted according to availability and itinerary.
Please be advised that in respect to the Saudi Law, alcohol will not be served during the Calls in Saudi Arabian ports. Alcohol will be available to our guests when the ship sails in International Waters.
All MSC Cruises' pre-paid and post-paid drink packages include gratuities.
Easy Plus Package
Easy Plus Package
Those looking for a bigger selection of cocktails, beers, and wines should look at the Easy Plus package. This package also includes drinks in their Specialty restaurants (whereas the Easy Package does not include these restaurants).
How to book
For the best value for money, pre-purchase your drinks package as part of your booking with us. If you have already booked your MSC Cruise with us, simply log into your MSC booking to add on the drinks package you require. You can do this via their online portal or their 'MSC For Me' app. You can also purchase once onboard but is usually more expensive.
Included
Selected Cocktails
Beers
Spirits
Fresh fruit and protein cocktails
Mocktails
Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Bottled Water
Hot Drinks
Wines By The Glass
10% discount on bottles of wine purchased on board
Gratuities & services charges
Excluded
Mini Bar Items
Drinks Sold In The Onboard Shops
Room service orders
Terms and Conditions
The Easy Plus Package covers all the above served at our bars, buffet, main restaurant and specialty restaurants. What’s more, it also includes private islands, but does not cover the signature venues.
Drink packages are non-transferable and cannot be shared with other guests, being valid for one drink per order. Violation of these terms may result in cancellation of a guest's package without entitlement to a refund or credit of any kind.
Packages are sold on a per cruise basis and not per day or any other basis. The price applies to all days of the cruise except the day of disembarkation. Once activated on board, packages cannot be cancelled or refunded. Packages must be booked by all guests occupying the same cabin, travelling together and wishing to dine at the same table. This includes minors, for whom the Minors Package must be booked.
The package is not obligatory for children under 3 years of age (i.e. who have not yet reached their third birthday). The following exclusions apply: tobacco, souvenir glasses, ice cream menus, retail items, minibar, room service, promotions and Signature Venues (Venchi 1878 , Jean-Philippe Maury venues, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club) regardless of the price of drinks, cabin service and promotions. You must be of legal age to consume alcohol. Other terms and conditions may apply. Guests under the legal drinking age with respect to the operating area of the ship are not permitted to purchase or consume alcohol. Drinks and liquor may be substituted according to availability and itinerary.
Please be advised that in respect to the Saudi Law, alcohol will not be served during the Calls in Saudi Arabian ports. Alcohol will be available to our guests when the ship sails in International Waters.
All MSC Cruises' pre-paid and post-paid drink packages include gratuities.
Easy Package
Easy Package
The Easy Package is a great budget option with a selection of wines and cocktails and beers.
How to book
For the best value for money, pre-purchase your drinks package as part of your booking with us. If you have already booked your MSC Cruise with us, simply log into your MSC booking to add on the drinks package you require. You can do this via their online portal or their 'MSC For Me' app. You can also purchase once onboard but is usually more expensive.
Included
Selected Cocktails
Mocktails
Spirits
House wine
Beers
Sodas
Bottled Water
Hot Drinks
Gratuities & services charges
Excluded
Mini Bar Items
Drinks Sold In The Onboard Shops
Room service orders
Terms and Conditions
The brand of beer may vary overtime. The Easy Package covers all the above served in our bars, buffet and main restaurant. What’s more, it also includes private islands, but does not cover the specialty restaurants and signature venues.
Drink packages are non-transferable and cannot be shared with other guests, being valid for one drink per order. Violation of these terms may result in cancellation of a guest's package without entitlement to a refund or credit of any kind.
Packages are sold on a cruise basis and not per day or any other basis. The price applies to all days of the cruise, except the day of disembarkation. Once activated on board, packages cannot be cancelled or refunded. Packages must be booked by all guests occupying the same cabin, travelling together and wishing to dine at the same table. This includes minors, for whom the Minors Package must be booked.
The package is not obligatory for children under 3 years of age (i.e. who have not yet reached their third birthday). The following exclusions apply: tobacco, souvenir glasses, ice cream menus, retail items, minibar, cabin service, promotions and Signature Venues such as Venchi 1878 , Jean-Philippe Maury venues, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club, MSC World Europa Coffee Emporium, MSC World Europa Raj Polo Tea Room regardless of the price of drinks, cabin service and promotions. You must be of legal age to consume alcohol. Other terms and conditions may apply. Guests under the legal drinking age with respect to the ship's operating area are not permitted to purchase or consume alcohol. Drinks and liquor may be substituted according to availability and itinerary.
Please be advised that in respect to the Saudi Law, alcohol will not be served during the Calls in Saudi Arabian ports. Alcohol will be available to our guests when the ship sails in International Waters.
All MSC Cruises' pre-paid and post-paid drink packages include gratuities.
The Alcohol Free Package
The Alcohol Free Package
For guests that don't drink, there is the alcohol-free package that offers mocktails, fresh fruit juices, sodas, flavoured water, hot drinks, and even ice cream.
How to book
For the best value for money, pre-purchase your drinks package as part of your booking with us. If you have already booked your MSC Cruise with us, simply log into your MSC booking to add on the drinks package you require. You can do this via their online portal or their 'MSC For Me' app. You can also purchase once onboard but is usually more expensive.
Included
Mocktails
Healthy Smoothies
Energy Drinks
Ice Creams
Hot Drinks
Sodas
Flavoured Water
Gratuities & services charges
Excluded
Mini Bar Items
Room service orders
Drinks Sold In The Onboard Shops
Terms and Conditions
The Alcohol Free Package can be used in our bars, self-service buffet, main restaurant and on private islands, but not in the specialty restaurants and signature venues.
Drink packages are non-transferable and cannot be shared with other guests, being valid for one drink per order. Violation of these terms may result in cancellation of a guest's package without entitlement to a refund or credit of any kind.
Packages are sold on a per cruise basis and not per day or any other basis. The price applies to all days of the cruise except the day of disembarkation. Once activated on board, packages cannot be cancelled or refunded. Packages must be booked by all guests occupying the same cabin, travelling together and wishing to dine at the same table. This includes minors, for whom the Minors Package must be booked.
The package is not compulsory for children under 3 years of age (i.e. who have not yet reached their third birthday). The following items are not included in the package: tobacco, souvenir glasses, ice cream menu, retail items, minibar and room service. The following exclusions apply: tobacco, souvenir cups, ice cream menus, retail items, minibar, cabin service, promotions and Signature Venues (Venchi 1878 , Jean-Philippe Maury venues, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club, MSC World Europa Coffee Emporium, MSC World Europa Raj Polo Tea Room) regardless of the price of drinks, cabin service and promotions. You must be of legal age to consume alcohol. Other terms and conditions may apply. Guests under the legal drinking age with respect to the ship's operating area are not permitted to purchase or consume alcohol. Drinks and liquor may be substituted according to availability and itinerary.
All MSC Cruises' pre-paid and post-paid drink packages include gratuities.
Minors Package
Minors Package
The Minors package is for guests aged 3 to 17 years on European cruises and 3 to 20 years on American and Caribbean cruises.
How to book
The Minors Package must be purchased for all underage guests travelling with adults who purchase a beverage package. Applicable for minors aged 3-17 on European itineraries and 3-12 on North American and Caribbean itineraries (Alcohol-free package available for minors 13-20 years old).
Included
Mocktails
Fresh fruit and protein cocktails
Energy Drinks
Flavoured Water
Sodas
Hot Drinks
Ice Creams
Gratuities & services charges
Excluded
Mini Bar Items
Drinks Sold In The Onboard Shops
Room service orders
Terms and Conditions
The Minors Package can be used in onboard bars, self-service buffet, main restaurant and on private islands, and in specialty restaurants too if the minor’s family/group purchased the Easy Plus or Premium Extra packages.
The Minors Package must be purchased for all underage guests travelling with adults who purchase a beverage package. Applicable for minors aged 3-17 on European itineraries and 3-12 on North American and Caribbean itineraries (Alcohol-free package available for minors 13-20 years old).
Drink packages are non-transferable and cannot be shared with other guests, being valid for one drink per order. Violation of these terms may result in cancellation of a guest's package without entitlement to a refund or credit of any kind.
Packages are sold on a per cruise basis and not per day or any other basis. The price applies to all days of the cruise except the day of disembarkation. Once activated on board, packages cannot be cancelled or refunded. Packages must be booked by all guests occupying the same cabin, travelling together and wishing to dine at the same table. This includes minors, for whom the Minors Package must be booked.
The package is not obligatory for children under 3 years of age (i.e. who have not yet reached their third birthday). The following exclusions apply: tobacco, souvenir glasses, ice cream menus, retail items, minibar, room service, promotions and Signature Venues (Venchi 1878 , Jean-Philippe Maury venues, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club, MSC World Europa Coffee Emporium, MSC World Europa Raj Polo Tea Room) regardless of the price of drinks, cabin service and promotions. You must be of legal age to consume alcohol. Other terms and conditions may apply. Guests under the legal drinking age with respect to the ship's operating area are not permitted to purchase or consume alcohol. Drinks and liquor may be substituted according to availability and itinerary.
All MSC Cruises' pre-paid and post-paid drink packages include gratuities.
Wi-fi
To browse the internet on-board you can either pay-as-you-go or buy a wi-fi package for the duration of your trip.
Excursions
If you would like to do any excursions/tours while docked these will be an additional charge. Excursions/tours can’t currently be booked with us online but please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add these to your package. Alternatively these can be bought while on the ship but may be more expensive than pre-booking.
Insurance
Have the peace of mind that you're covered. Contact us after you have made the booking if you would like us to add this to your package.
Parking
Car parking at the port or airport for the duration of your trip is not included within the price of the cruise. Port/airport parking can’t currently be booked with us online but please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add this to your package. An approximate cost for parking is between £12 - £20 per car per day. Alternatively we can arrange transfers from your home to the departure airport/port.
Speciality Dining
Specialty restaurants allow travellers to enhance their dining experience during the cruise. This is a great way to add variety to your holiday or celebrate a special occasion. You can pay for meals in the special dining restaurants onboard.
Transfers
Transfers from your home to the port or airport aren't included but we can help organise coach transfers, taxis etc to make your life easier. Please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add these to your package.
Visa
Visas are not provided by us or the cruise operator. Visas and other travel documents have to be obtained by the individual passengers prior to sailing.
Customer reviews for MSC Magnifica
3.6
Based on 75 reviews
Cabin
3.7
Service
3.7
Excursions
3.4
Dining
3.7
Activities
3.5
Value for money
3.7
Entertainment
3.5
I didn't make use of the entertainment, activities, or excursions so cannot really comment. Hence the negative response.
family
10+ cruisesOcean View Bella
25 Mar 2022
Had a wonderful cruise apart from the accident with my granddaughters switch game in the cabin.
family
10+ cruisesInterior Bella
25 Feb 2022
Lovely ship. friendly staff, fantastic food, amazing value, impressive facilities. Photographer's pester too much, excursion rules terrible, swabbing stressfully too late in the embarking process (should be done on arrival, not whilst waiting to board the ship with key cards in hand and excited children)
family
1 cruiseBalcony Bella
23 Dec 2021
Service was excellent throughout the ship. The crew couldn't have been more helpful. I think this ship might feel a little crowded if it was at full capacity, although there are plenty of bars dotted around the public areas.
couple
10+ cruisesBalcony
19 Dec 2021
Terms and Conditions
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.